The Most Common MINI Cooper Auto Repairs
5 Repairs Your MINI May Need
The MINI Cooper is a popular car choice for many drivers. Though they are fun cars to drive, they are not immune to needing repairs. Here are five of the most common auto repairs for MINI Coopers.
- Replacing the clutch.
- Replacing the brake pads. Like all cars, the brake pads on a MINI Cooper will need to be replaced over time. Though this is not a difficult repair, it should be carried out by a professional mechanic. Symptoms of your brake pads needing to be replaced include squealing or grinding noises when you apply the brakes, reduced braking power, or vibrations. If you notice these symptoms, it's time for new brake pads.
- Replacing the spark plugs and ignition coils. The spark plugs and ignition coils in a MINI Cooper will eventually wear out and need to be replaced. Symptoms of spark plugs or ignition coils needing to be replaced include a misfiring engine, poor fuel economy, or difficulty starting the car. If you notice these symptoms, it's time for new spark plugs and ignition coils.
- Replacing the water pump. The water pump in a MINI Cooper is responsible for circulating coolant through the engine to keep it from overheating. Over time, the water pump will eventually fail and must be replaced—typically every 50,000 miles or so. Symptoms of your water pump needing to be replaced include leaks under the car, an overheating engine, or steam coming from under the hood. If you notice any of these symptoms, take your car to a mechanic immediately, as an overheated engine can cause serious damage if left unchecked.
- Flushing the coolant system.
This is a common repair for manual transmission MINI Coopers. Over time, the clutch wears down and will eventually need to be replaced. Symptoms that your clutch may need to be replaced include a slipping clutch, difficulty shifting gears, or a burning smell when the car is in use. If you notice any of these symptoms, it's best to take your car to a mechanic to get it checked out.
The coolant system in a MINI Cooper needs to be flushed and refilled every 30,000 miles or so—more often if you live in an area with hard water (which can cause deposits to build up in the system). Symptoms that your coolant system needs to be flushed include an overheating engine or leaks under the car (coolant leaks will often appear as greenish-yellow fluid). If you notice either of these symptoms, make sure to visit your mechanic right away.